Paul Toth, President & CEO Toledo-Lucas County Port-Authority, began the formal presentation with a short update on the Overland Industrial Park, formerly known as the Jeep Site. He shared the history of the site, the investment to date ($15.2 million dollars), and the many supporters of the project. This project has been a premier investment in our region and continues to present many opportunities for economic growth and development.

Dean Monske, President of the Regional Growth Partnership, spoke to the group next, giving 1st quarter economic updates for the Toledo Region. He cited 13 project wins, meaning that 13 new companies have established business and brought jobs to the Toledo Region, including two companies from South Korea. He highlighted the fact that ConAgra has in fact relocated from Missouri back to the Toledo Region, a huge success and tribute to our growing economy.

Randy Oostra, President & CEO ProMedica Health System, highlighted the various projects ProMedica is currently developing throughout the region, though he focused on the idea that community plays a huge role in the individual’s ability to achieve “well-being.” He quoted the book Well Being, “Community well-being…can actually be the differentiator between a good life and a great one.” Oostra feels that as a health system, it is partially the responsibility of ProMedica to help create a vibrant community in the Toledo Area and to support projects that will contribute to the overall well-being of Toledo residents. For the last year and a half the 22nd Century Committee has been working toward this overarching goal of creating a vibrant community. Their intent has been to provide leadership to a strategic direction to help facilitate revitalization of Toledo’s downtown urban core and to help enhance partnerships and collaboration between the private and public sector. Oostra has served on this committee and shared that the committee is hoping to close this summer and move forward with implementation.

Oostra went on to invite everyone to the next public meeting on May 4, 2016 at the The McMaster Family Center, Toledo-Lucas County Main Library. “If you come you will not be bored!” The focus of this meeting will be on the “what,” what can be done to pursue emerging opportunities Downtown, including use of the river, entertainment opportunities, and creating residential spaces.

​Robin Whitney, Senior Vice President, Real Estate and Construction ProMedia Health System, followed Oostra with updates on the various construction projects in the region. She specifically focused on the rehabilitation and renovation of the Steam Plant site downtown. “We wanted to respect the history of the site and pay tribute to the waterfront.” She also shared how they are approaching the ProMedica Parking structure and nearby park. Beautification of the park is a huge focus, and the team is designing it by thinking of the park 365 days a year. They want the park to be a regional draw and completely geared toward the entire community.

The June FOCUS Lunch brings another featured speaker you won’t want to miss, Col. Craig Baker, Commander of the 180th Ohio National Guard located at Toledo Express Airport. Col. Baker has a lot to share with our business community, including the 9/11 Memorial being installed at the base, ongoing activities of the 180th, and information about the July Air Show.​A special thank you to our Sponsors Eastman & Smith, Ltd. ​